The six major language learning strategies, according to Oxford's (1990) taxonomy, are essential tools that learners use to improve their language skills. They cover various aspects of language acquisition, from memorization to practical use.
Understanding the Six Language Learning Strategies
Here’s a breakdown of each strategy:
1. Memory Strategies
- Purpose: To help learners remember and retrieve new information, such as vocabulary and grammar rules.
- Techniques:
- Creating mental linkages (e.g., using imagery).
- Applying images and sounds.
- Reviewing well (e.g., using structured reviews).
- Example: Using flashcards to memorize vocabulary or creating a mental image associated with a new word.
2. Cognitive Strategies
- Purpose: To help learners understand and produce the language effectively.
- Techniques:
- Analyzing and reasoning (e.g., breaking down complex grammar).
- Practice (e.g., using grammar patterns in conversations).
- Creating structure for input and output.
- Example: Practicing speaking in target language to improve fluency.
3. Metacognitive Strategies
- Purpose: To enable learners to coordinate their learning process by setting goals, planning, and evaluating progress.
- Techniques:
- Centering learning (e.g., focusing on key aspects of learning).
- Arranging and planning learning (e.g., setting up a study schedule).
- Evaluating learning (e.g., assessing strengths and weaknesses).
- Example: Setting a weekly goal to learn 20 new words and then reviewing at the end of the week to track progress.
4. Compensation Strategies
- Purpose: To help learners use the language even with limited knowledge, employing techniques to make up for a lack of language skills.
- Techniques:
- Guessing intelligently (e.g., using context).
- Overcoming limitations in speaking and writing.
- Example: Using circumlocution (describing a word or phrase if you don't know the exact term) or using gestures to convey a message.
5. Affective Strategies
- Purpose: To manage emotions, motivation, and attitudes that can affect learning.
- Techniques:
- Reducing anxiety (e.g., positive self-talk).
- Increasing motivation (e.g., setting realistic goals).
- Managing negative emotions.
- Example: Practicing relaxation techniques before a language test to reduce anxiety or listening to music in the target language to make the learning experience more enjoyable.
6. Social Strategies
- Purpose: To learn through interaction with others.
- Techniques:
- Asking questions (e.g., seeking clarification).
- Cooperating with peers (e.g., group discussions and study sessions).
- Empathizing with others.
- Example: Joining a language exchange group to practice speaking skills and receive feedback.
Summary Table of Language Learning Strategies
| Strategy | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Memory | Remembering and retrieving information. | Flashcards, mental imagery, structured reviews. |
| Cognitive | Understanding and producing language. | Analyzing grammar, practicing speaking, structuring input/output. |
| Metacognitive | Coordinating and planning the learning process. | Setting goals, planning study time, evaluating learning progress. |
| Compensation | Overcoming gaps in knowledge and using the language effectively. | Guessing, using circumlocution, using gestures. |
| Affective | Managing emotions and motivation related to learning. | Positive self-talk, setting realistic goals, managing anxiety. |
| Social | Learning through interaction with others. | Asking questions, cooperating with peers, language exchange. |
By understanding and using these six language learning strategies, learners can optimize their language learning journey and achieve greater proficiency.
